One of the advantages of booking with Lindsay Walden Photography for your newborn photography session is that we create an experience that is seamless, fun, and completely stress-free.
One of the first things we do to help alleviate any of your concerns is to invite you to meet with us for a pre-session design consultation. At this consultation, we will go over everything you need to know to ensure you are well prepared for your newborn photography session.
Today we are highlighting a few of the tips that we share with our clients during that consultation.
What to Bring to your Newborn Photography Session
#1 – Pacifier
If you are comfortable with your baby using a pacifier then definitely bring one (or two or three!). We use these on a limited basis during our newborn photography session to help soothe baby as we change poses.
It helps them stay calm and content in between shots. We particularly like the Soothie brand as these will not leave marks on the baby’s face. We also prefer pacifiers without anything attached to them.
The styles that have a stuffed animal or tether attached to them are AWESOME for using at home or when you are out on the run, while there are other Bedroom Wall Décor Ideas which could be great for the decoration of our home in preparation of the newborn photography session. But in the studio, it is much easier for us to comfort and pose your baby with just a simple pacifier.
#2 – Extra bottles, breastmilk, formula and/or breast pump (if applicable)
If you are supplementing or feeding solely from a bottle we always recommend that you bring a little more than you would expect to use during a 2-3 hour photo session.
We keep the studio nice and warm, are moving baby around a fair amount, and they tend to be quite hungry. If you bring a bottle then my assistant or I will happily feed your baby for you during the session.
#3 – Heirlooms
For each of our sessions, we meet at the design consultation to discuss the overall aesthetic for the newborn photography session as well as any specific images we can create for you.
We love incorporating elements that you bring from home that are meaningful to you and tell a story. We only ask that you send a photo of whatever you plan to bring before the session or bring it with you to the consultation so we can plan with intention how we can incorporate your item into an image in a beautiful and thoughtful way.
#4 – Snacks
We provide an abundance of snacks and cold water for our clients during their newborn photography session.
However, if you have allergies or specific preferences you may also want to tuck a few things into your bag. Two to three hours can be a long time especially when you are breastfeeding.
#5 – Clothing
During your design consultation, we will discuss in detail what to wear for your session. However, we also want you to keep in mind that it will be quite warm in the studio during your session so you may want to dress in layers.
We also recommend bringing a change of clothes just in case. Sometimes pee or poo happens and no one wants to drive home in those clothes!
#6 – Scheduling
Newborn sessions are generally scheduled within the first two weeks after the baby is born. We prefer days 7-14. However, we have years of experience photographing newborns and are comfortable and confident that we can capture beautiful images of your newborn at any stage. So don’t stress if for some reason you are not able to bring your newborn to the studio within the first two weeks after your baby is born.
# 7 – Keep your baby awake before your session
Our first tip is probably the most important but also the one with a big, fat disclaimer. Ideally, we suggest that you try to keep the baby awake for an hour or so prior to your session. You may want to give them a bath, give a little lotion massage to clear up some of that dry skin, or give them some tummy time. However, if your baby is exhausted and just wants to sleep and eat, by all means, let them. The last thing we would want is for mom and dad to arrive at their newborn session feeling flustered and emotionally spent. Follow your baby’s lead. But if you are able to plan to give them a bath and allow for more awake time before your session without stressing you and/or baby that would be ideal.
# 8 – How to dress your baby
We have everything you need in our studio for your photo session so there is no need to plan any special outfits for your newborn. Everything is taken care of for you. It is helpful though if you dress baby in something that is easy to remove. Ideally, an outfit that zips or buttons down the front versus something that needs to be removed over their head. We ask that you put baby’s diaper on a little looser than you normally would right before putting them in the car seat. And no tight hats either. This will help avoid undesirable red marks on the baby.
# 9 – Breastfeeding
If you will be exclusively breastfeeding your baby we recommend being mindful of what you are eating and drinking for at least 24 hours prior to your session. While all babies tolerate things differently it is just a good idea to keep this in mind before your session.
# 10 – Feeding your baby
If you are able to feed your baby right before coming to the session that is ideal. Then we can get started immediately creating those beautiful images you are going to cherish. However, you are welcome to breast or bottlefeed in the studio at any time that baby needs to.
# 11 – Timing
Newborn sessions can be unpredictable. Your session can take two to three hours. We recommend not scheduling any activities after your session.
Most importantly, sit back and relax! We will take care of everything for you!
We hope this has been helpful in preparing for your newborn session. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or to learn more about scheduling a design consultation.
Read more about our Newborn Sessions:
